Interview with Clifton Weidlich, May 28, 1983

Interview Summary

Weidlich a classmate of John Sherman Cooper's at Yale University, begins the interview by discussing how he first met Cooper. The classmates' lives at Yale are considered, focusing on the academic, athletic, and social aspects of the university. Additionally, Weidlich talks of his and Cooper's lives after Yale. The interviewee shares his perspective on the 1948 presidential election. Weidlich briefly provides an overview of the selection of Skull and Bones at Yale. The 1948 presidential election results are detailed. Why Dewey lost to Truman is speculated upon. Weidlich illustrates Cooper's personality. Yale in the late 1910s and early 1920s is considered. Cooper's voting habits in the Senate are explored. Weidlich assesses changes at Yale, especially in terms of fraternities. The Yale class of 1923 reunion is examined. Weidlich details Cooper's character. To conclude the interview, Weidlich articulates what type of a student Cooper was at Yale.

Interview Keyword

John Sherman Cooper Skull and Bones (Yale) 1948 presidential election Thomas Dewey Harry Truman Academics

Interview LC Subject

Cooper, John Sherman, 1901-1991 Politicians Politicians--United States Politics and government United States--Politics and government Weidlich, Clifton Weidlich, Clifton--Interviews Ivy League (Athletic conference) Somerset (Ky.) Yale University Friendship New Haven (Conn.) Students Undergraduate Basketball Personality Character

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.